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The recovery progress of Lionel Messi’s injury has become a major talking point as Argentina prepares for the 2026 World Cup.

Seven Argentine national team players, including Lionel Messi, are currently dealing with injuries ahead of the 2026 World Cup. So, what is their latest condition?

Argentina’s mission to defend their World Cup title is about to begin. Head coach Lionel Scaloni has officially announced his final 26-man squad for the tournament.

However, seven key players are still in the process of recovering from various injuries — Lionel Messi, Emiliano Martinez, Leandro Paredes, Nico Gonzalez, Nahuel Molina, Nico Paz, and Gonzalo Montiel.

This situation poses a significant challenge for Scaloni as the opening match draws near. Fortunately, some relief came when well-known Argentine journalist Gaston Edul released an update on the current status of these injured players.

According to Edul’s report, Lionel Messi is still undergoing recovery from a minor injury he sustained while playing for Inter Miami. The 38-year-old superstar is likely to be rested during the friendly match against Honduras but is expected to be fit in time for Argentina’s opening group-stage match against Algeria.

The goalkeeping position brings a slightly more serious concern. Emiliano Martinez will reportedly miss both friendly matches against Honduras and Iceland to allow full rest and healing. The Aston Villa goalkeeper suffered a fractured ring finger on his right hand — a crucial area for his position.

Meanwhile, midfielder Leandro Paredes is said to be experiencing slight physical discomfort but remains under close medical supervision.

On the brighter side, Nico Gonzalez and Nahuel Molina are nearly fully recovered from the muscle injuries that sidelined them earlier. Young talent Nico Paz also received good news — the hard knock he sustained while playing for Como 1907 has not worsened, and he is expected to be available for Argentina’s World Cup opener.

In contrast, right-back Gonzalo Montiel’s condition remains more concerning. He is still dealing with a torn muscle in his left thigh and will need to work extra hard to regain full fitness.

With limited time left, Argentina’s medical team is racing against the clock to ensure that the Albiceleste can field their strongest lineup when the tournament begins. In the 2026 World Cup, Argentina has been placed in Group J alongside Algeria, Austria, and Jordan.

As defending champions, the Tango team remains one of the top favourites to go deep in the competition.